Flakes Are Frustrating: These 10 Dandruff Shampoos Will Help

Dandruff got you down? We can help. Referred to by doctors as seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff typically appears as dry, scaly, and even waxy flakes that develop on oily or hair-bearing areas of the body (so normally the scalp, the eyebrows, and even the chest). As Rachel Nazarian, MD, explains, “severe cases can be quite irritating, appearing as red, itchy areas of flakes.” The cause is still slightly unclear (bummer, I know) but Nazarian says it’s in response to a natural yeast that’s found on the skin, and it tends to flare up with stress and cold, dry weather. It can even be caused by certain medications, so check with your doctor to see if that may be the case.

People sometimes judge this condition and blame it on poor hygiene or uncleanliness, but Nazarian is quick to refute such claims. Although the condition is not at all dangerous, it can be distressing for sure. No one wants to live with red, oily skin or feel like they’re constantly leaving flakes everywhere they go. As someone who dresses in almost entirely black clothing, this seems like a nightmare. As such, Nazarian suggests the top treatments for dandruff (as there’s still no cut-and-dry cure) are the ones that contain salicylic acid, selenium, sulfur, or tar. While they don’t sound particularly pleasing, these products work. That being said, it’s also best to steer clear of greasy or oil-based hair products, as they encourage yeast to flourish.

Below we’ve detailed a list of the top-rated over-the-counter options, but Nazarian suggests some cases may need stronger medication. Your dermatologist can prescribe either prescription-strength topical creams, gels, or even oral medication.

This time-tested product clears crusty (graphic but true) buildup while relieving itching and flaking from your scalp. Best for severe conditions, Neutrogena’s Therapeutic Shampoo is just that—therapeutic. It’s clinically proven to deliver maximum relief, even during your most stressful outbreaks.

This offering uses piroctone olamine and climbazole—ingredients that (when combined with menthol, rosemary oil, and ginger extract) completely remove dry dandruff from your hair. Work it in for one to two minutes, rinse thoroughly, and you’re good to go!

Use the targeted root applicator to apply a quarter-sized amount directly on to your scalp. The microbeads in this shampoo gently remove dandruff and leave an intense, satisfyingly clean feeling behind.

Apply this leave-in treatment daily to reduce flaking up to 40% in just one week. We like those odds. The formula utilizes lipid to clarify the scalp, salicylic acid to gently exfoliate, and sage to calm irritation.

Inspired by the antibacterial and calming properties of mint leaf (and let’s be honest, it smells like a mojito) this cleanser removes excess oil from the scalp and refreshes the skin with a cool sensation.